From Manuscript to Ministry: A Conversation With Dr. Trent Rogers
Cedarville School of Biblical and Theological Studies faculty publish scholarship for pew, pulpit and academy — commentaries, theology and practical books that sharpen teaching, equip pastors and help students and congregations apply Scripture faithfully.
What does it mean to do research that builds up the church, not just the classroom?
Faculty write with multiple audiences in mind. Some books serve the pews, directly encouraging and instructing church members. Others serve the pulpit, equipping pastors and ministry leaders. Still others serve the lectern, shaping academic discussions that ultimately influence churches. Together, these works strengthen the church at every level.
Why is it important for professors to be both scholars and people who care deeply about the church?
Those who are training others for ministry must model personal commitment to their local churches. Our School of Biblical and Theological Studies (SBTS) professors are committed not only to their students and their academic disciplines but even more so to ministering within their local churches. All of our faculty serve in their local churches in a variety of ways.
How does the writing and research of our professors strengthen the student experience within the School of Biblical and Theological Studies?
Research sharpens a teacher’s knowledge of the field, and writing sharpens a teacher’s ability to communicate. The SBTS faculty value publication in their fields because they want to teach with excellence and shape their classrooms' scholarly conversations toward honoring Christ. Students benefit by learning from professors who are faithfully advancing their disciplines.
When you look at the books our faculty have written, what common message or theme do you see running through them?
The underlying theme of their books is that God has spoken through the Bible and that it is our job to listen and obey. Their writing is dedicated to helping others comprehend the Bible, live in submission to the Bible, and understand how others have interpreted the Bible.
How can readers use these books to grow in their own faith or ministry?
SBTS faculty members write enough to keep the printing presses busy. Their writing ranges from very technical academic projects to more popular-level books. The scope of their writing includes a variety of topics: Bible commentaries, missions, historical theology, and practical theology, to name a few. Whatever a reader’s background, these books offer tools to understand Scripture more deeply and to serve Christ and His Church more faithfully